Chamomile tea is well known for its calming effects. This tasty drink also boasts many other health benefits: It eases menstrual cramps, improves anxiety and sleep and treats the common cold. Research suggests that chamomile tea may also help people with diabetes.

Japanese scientists gave a group of rats with diabetes a chamomile extract every day for three weeks, while a control group received a placebo. Researchers found that the rats consuming chamomile had significantly lower blood glucose levels.

Studies show that chamomile can also suppress enzymes that are linked to an increased risk of complications commonly associated with diabetes, such as vision, kidney and nerve damage.

Of course, animal studies are a far cry from human clinical trials. But adding a cup or two of chamomile tea to your daily routine isn’t a bad idea - whether you have diabetes or not. Try drinking it with or right after meals, as chamomile has also been shown to aid in digestion and prevent heartburn and flatulence.

If you spend time on social media, why not get your diabetes tips there also? Lifescript has just launched a dedicated type 2 diabetes Facebook page that will offer diabetes tips, recipes, inspiration and more. You’ll get advice, find friends, and discover solutions to everyday living. Come join us!